In response to Rep. Josh Boschee’s, D-Fargo, letter to The Forum June 6 concerning his blatant disregard of facts regarding the 63rd legislative session:

The session was one of the most difficult sessions in decades, with huge issues to address. Much of this is due to North Dakota’s economic growth and prosperity. Despite challenges, strong solutions were implemented after considerable deliberation by the Legislature, led by the Republican majority.

The voter ID law we passed is an example of a needed common-sense law that will all but eliminate voter fraud and protect the opportunity for all North Dakota’s legitimate voters to have complete access to cast their vote. Opponents of voter ID laws purport there have been few cases of voter fraud in North Dakota, while ignoring the facts. In the last election, thousands of voter affidavits were used to vote and there was no reliable way to verify eligibility of voters.

The voter ID law that was passed in no way disenfranchises any legitimate North Dakota resident. The secretary of state will implement processes for all legitimate residents to obtain a free voter ID should they not possess a driver’s license, tribal ID or several other recognized forms of identification.

Regarding Boschee’s assertion that Republicans are “heartless” and do not care about kids because we voted down the farce that was called the “milk bill”: We had testimony on the floor of the House from two former superintendents of schools that the bill was unnecessary because there is currently sufficient milk available for all kids who want it. Additionally, we received emails from current superintendents that this bill was unnecessary.

The Democrats have used this matter in an attempt to paint Republicans as uncaring. The facts are that the Republican majority delivered more than

$1.7 billion in support for K-12 public schools, which includes all the funding needed for milk breaks and other system needs.

It is apparent the Democratic Party strategy for the 2014 election is to fill newspapers with half-truths, innuendos and misinformation in their attempt to gain political advantages. I have faith that residents of North Dakota see through this misguided strategy by a Democratic Party devoid of ideas, leadership and truthful discourse.